Westerly, RI Real Estate

Westerly is a beachfront town located in Washington County, Rhode Island. Before Westerly was popular for its beaches, it was known for its stone­cutting and granite industries.

The Granite Theater is a prime example of the industries that once flourished in the town. Built in 1843, the Granite Theater was originally a Christian Church—or “The Christian Chapel in Westerly”—but today is considered a restored Greek Revival Church. The theater now seats 140 people and has a variety of play genres for patrons to enjoy throughout the season.

Watch Hill, an affluent village in Westerly, is a popular attraction known for its beautiful beaches. Napatree Point, East Beach and Watch Hill Beach are all located in the village. Beachgoers can also take a short walk to the Watch Hill Lighthouse, built in 1856, and admire the architecture and landscape. The lighthouse also has a museum with limited hours during the summer. The oldest flying horse carousel in the country is also in Watch Hill and is open all year for families to enjoy.

Located adjacent to the Westerly Public Library, Wilcox Park has been open since 1989 and is considered a “nationally significant listing” on the National Register of Historic Places. The park displays much of Westerly’s history with eight monuments throughout the park with the oldest dating back to 1887. The park also features a fish pond, Perennial gardens and memorials. Many town events take place in the park.

Known for its history and affluence, much of the Westerly real estate is restored historic homes dating back to the eighteenth century. Because of its pristine beaches, Westerly has many Beach Cottage style homes by the water that are perfect for summer or year­round living. Westerly has more than single­family homes for sale, however, including multi­family houses and condominiums.

Westerly Information

Known for its spectacular beaches, Westerly is a year-round community that sees its population almost double in the summer. Located in the southwestern corner of the state, the town has the atmosphere of an old New England town. The houses are classic and many have water views and considerable land.

Impressions/Character

The winds bring in the cool, bracing sea air and the temperature in the summer rarely exceeds optimum comfort levels. Some neighborhoods capture the old-world charm of a historic fishing community; with antique colonial and Queen Anne style homes and tree-lined streets. In addition a few condominium developments have been built, offering yet another desirable alternative in this idyllic New England village. Rowing, swimming, ocean sailing, fishing and hiking make this a very appealing area. Watch Hill — almost surrounded by the ocean and bay with its beautiful formation of rocks and sand — is known for its fantastic beaches and summer cottages, along with the world-renowned Misquamicut Club.